Straight-strung vs. Over-strung

[Anne Beetem]

At 06:33 PM 12/11/97 -0800, Del wrote:
>
>
--------------------------------------------------------
>
>Well, now. Here is a whole other topic to debate. Straight-stringing vs.
over-stringing. Let me pose a question --
>
>Why are all of the pianos being built today overstrung?
>
>-- ddf
>
>




   Partly for the same reasons that cross stringing was first invented.
First, as is still the case, it gives the advantage of longer strings in
less two-dimensional space.  Secondly, an issue before the adoption of the
iron frame, cross-stringing helped equalize the tension on the case.  The
first cross-stringings were on small uprights and squares of the 1820's and
1830's.  Henri Pape writes very clearly of this in his 1828 patent regarding
one of his pianinos.

   Cross stringing on grands was not introduced until the 1850's, as Stephen
filled in while I was out working today (Somebody's got to get out and fix
those harpsichords).   The first overstrung Steinway grand was introduced in
1859.  Again, partly the issue is to allow longer string length in less space. 

  Then, as was pointed out, the color of the sound changes because of the
changed location of the bass and tenor bridges.  Some call this a richer
sound from the bass, some of us call it muddy compared to straight strung.
It is partly a matter of taste.

  Finally, grands are still made overstrung,  due to economic
considerations, i.e. the buying public.  As the slow-to-change European
piano builders discovered in the late 19th century, the public was buying
those overstrung Steinways because they were told it was a superior system.
Never underestimate the power of advertising and the public's vulnerability
to it. Also never underestimate the general public's feeling that louder is
better.   Other builders discovered they had to advertise that they were
using Steinway systems and designs in order to keep up their sales.  

  So, Del, make us a straight strung modern grand and invite us out to play it!

   Anne
    


Anne Beetem
Harpsichords & Historic Pianos
2070 Bingham Ct.
Reston, VA  20191
abeetem@wizard.net